Refrigerators Biryusa are one of the most common in Russia due to their reliability and maintainability. However, even with time-tested units, key components fail over time, such as start-up protection relay or thermal relay. If your refrigerator suddenly stops freezing, makes uncharacteristic clicks, or does not turn on at all, the problem may lie in this element. But before you run to the service center, you should try to remove the relay yourself - the procedure does not require professional skills if you strictly follow the instructions.
In this article we will look at how to properly dismantle the relay on refrigerators Biryusa various models (including popular series 22K, 18C, 130 etc.), what tools will be needed, and what to pay attention to so as not to damage other components. You will also learn how to distinguish a faulty relay from a working one and when it can be repaired and when it can only be replaced. Let's get started!
What relays are installed in Biryusa refrigerators and where to look for them
In refrigerators Biryusa Two types of relays are used, which are often confused with each other:
- 🔧 Start-up protection relay - is responsible for starting the compressor and protecting it from overheating. It is located directly on the compressor housing (usually on the side or top) and is attached to it using a spring clip or screws.
- 🌡️ Thermal relay - controls the temperature in the refrigerator/freezer compartment and, if necessary, turns off the compressor. It can be built into the thermostat or installed separately (depending on the model).
In most models Biryusa (for example, Biryusa 22K, Biryusa 130) the start-up relay is located in the lower part of the rear wall, next to the compressor. It is easily identified by its plastic or metal case with connected wires. The thermal relay can be hidden behind the control panel or inside the thermostatic unit - its dismantling requires greater care.
Before proceeding with removal, make sure that that the problem is in the relay. Typical signs of its malfunction:
- ⚡ The compressor does not start, although the light in the refrigerator is on.
- 🔊 Frequent clicks (the relay tries to turn on the compressor, but to no avail).
- ❄️ The refrigerator runs without stopping or, conversely, too rarely turns on.
Preparation for dismantling: tools and safety measures
Removing a relay is a procedure that requires a minimum set of tools, but maximum caution. Here's what you'll need:
| Tool/material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Phillips screwdriver (PH2) | For unscrewing the housing and relay fastenings |
| Flat screwdriver | Prying the clamps, removing covers |
| Pliers | Carefully disconnecting the terminals (if the wires are stuck) |
| Multimeter | Checking the integrity of the relay contacts (optional) |
| Insulating tape or heat shrink tube | Marking the wires before disconnecting |
Important: before starting work be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the mains and wait until the compressor has cooled down (if it has recently worked). Working with a live relay is dangerous - there is a risk of electric shock or short circuit!
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Biryusa was produced before 2010, the relay connection diagrams may differ from modern models. In this case, check the technical data sheet or photograph of the original assembly (if available).
Also prepare the workplace:
- 📸 Take a photo of the initial position of the relay and the connected wires (this will save you from mistakes during reassembly).
- 🧹 Remove dust from the back wall of the refrigerator - it can get inside the compressor during dismantling.
- 🔌 If the wires are hard, treat the terminals with alcohol for better contact when reconnecting.
Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the start-up protection relay
The start-up protection relay is the most common element that requires replacement. Its dismantling is simpler than that of a thermal relay, and the task can be completed in 10–15 minutes. Follow the algorithm:
Remove the back cover of the refrigerator. Usually it is attached to 4-6 screws. In some models Turkish (for example, Biryusa 6C) the cover may be plastic - pry it off carefully so as not to break the latches.
Localize the relay. It is located on the compressor - a black cylindrical block at the bottom. The relay can be:
- 🔹 Tablet (flat round case, secured with a screw).
- 🔹 Rectangular (plastic case with a spring fastening).
Disconnect the wires. Gently pull the terminals or press the latches (depending on the type of connectors). Do not pull the wires - only the terminals themselves! If the contacts are oxidized, clean them with alcohol or fine sandpaper.
Remove the relay mount.
- For screw mount: unscrew the screw with a screwdriver.
- For spring clamp: pry the relay with a flat screwdriver and pull up.
☑️ Checklist before removing the relay
If the relay is “stuck” to the compressor, do not apply excessive force - gently rock it from side to side. As a last resort, use pliers, but do not damage the compressor housing.
⚠️ Attention: On some models Biryusa (for example, Biryusa 132) the start-up relay is combined with starting capacitor. In this case, remove the entire unit without separating the parts - otherwise you risk damaging the electrical circuit.
Removing a thermal relay: features and nuances
Thermal relay (or thermorelay) is less common, but its replacement may be required if the refrigerator does not turn off or, conversely, turns off too often. Unlike the starting one, the thermal relay is often built into thermostat a plastic block with a temperature control knob.
Removal algorithm:
Remove the top cover of the refrigerator. Usually it is attached to 2-3 screws or latches. In models Biryusa 18C the cover may be part of a decorative panel - lift it from behind and pull it towards you.
Get to the thermostat. It is located next to the lighting lamp (in single-chamber models) or on the top panel (in two-chamber). The thermal relay can be:
- 🔘 A separate block with two wires.
- 🔘 Built into the thermostat (then the entire assembly is removed).
Disconnect the capillary tube. This is a thin copper tube running from the relay to the evaporator. Carefully pull it out of the mount without bending it.
Remove the terminals. Before doing this, mark the wires (for example, take a photo or stick tape with numbers). In thermostats Turk usually 3-4 wires:
- 🔴 Red/brown - phase.
- 🔵 Blue - zero.
- 🟢 Green/yellow - grounding.
- 🟡 Yellow/orange - signal (from the temperature sensor).
Switch the multimeter to resistance testing mode (ohmmeter).
Connect the probes to the relay contacts (usually there are two or three). The resistance between normally closed contacts should be
0–1 Ohm, between normally open contacts -infinity.If the resistance “floats” when shaking the relay, there is a break or cold inside soldering.
If the thermal relay is built into the thermostat, replacing it may require soldering or rearranging the contacts. In this case, it is better to contact a specialist - incorrect soldering will lead to a short circuit.
How to check the removed relay for functionality
Before buying a new relay, make sure that the old one is really faulty. For this you will need a multimeter (or at least an indicator screwdriver).
Checking the start-up relay:
Checking the thermal relay:
- 🔋 Apply voltage to the relay contacts
220V(through the load bulb). - 🌡️ Heat the capillary tube with a hairdryer or place it in warm water. A working relay should open the circuit when it heats up.
If the relay does not pass the tests, it needs to be replaced. In some cases (for example, when the contacts are oxidized), you can try to clean them with alcohol or fine sandpaper, but this is a temporary solution.
What to do if the relay looks fine, but the refrigerator does not work?
The problem may lie in the compressor or a broken winding. Check the resistance of the compressor windings (there should be 20–40 ohms between the contacts). If there is no resistance, the compressor has burned out.
Typical mistakes when removing the relay and how to avoid them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to breakdown of the refrigerator. Here are the most common:
- ⚡ Operation under voltage. Never check the relay without turning off the refrigerator! Even if the compressor is not working, a charge may remain on the capacitors.
- 🔌 Mixed wires. If you connect the phase and zero incorrectly, the relay will burn out immediately after switching on. Always label the wires before disconnecting.
- 🔧 Excessive force. When removing the spring relay, do not press on the compressor housing - this may damage the refrigerant tubes.
- 🧲 Lost parts. Small springs or screws are easily lost. Use a magnetic mat or container for fastening.
Another common mistake is ignoring capillary tube the thermal relay. If it is bent or damaged, the relay will not work correctly, even if it is working properly. Always carefully remove the tube from the mounts without twisting.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Biryusa with a system No Frost (for example, Biryusa 26) the relay can be hidden under the panel fan Before dismantling, remove the fan blades to avoid damaging them.
Choosing a new relay: compatibility and analogues
If the relay cannot be repaired, it must be replaced. The main rule is the new relay must be fully compatible with the compressor model. The following are usually indicated on the body of the old relay:
- 🔢 Relay model (for example,
RTK-1,DXR-2). - 🔧 Compressor type (for example,
DXM-5,Danfoss NL6). - 📏 Rated current (for example,
1.2A). - Are the wires connected correctly (phase and zero are not reversed?).
- Voltage in the socket (perhaps the problem is not in the refrigerator).
- Resistance of the compressor windings (if it is missing, it is burned out compressor).
- Attaching the relay (poor contact with the compressor can block the start).
- Start-protective relay always attached on the body compressor and has 2-3 thick wires.
- Thermal relay usually built into thermostat (next to the temperature control knob) and connected to a thin capillary tube.
- Take a screwdriver with an insulated handle.
- Short circuit capacitor contacts (between the terminals).
For refrigerators Biryusa relays of the following types are most often suitable:
| Refrigerator model | Type compressor | Suitable relay | Analogs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biryusa 22K, Biryusa 18C | DXM-3, DXM-5 | RTK-X, DHR-1 | Ranco K59, Danfoss 077B6 |
| Biryusa 130, Biryusa 132 | DXM-6, NL8 | RTP-1, 3TS-15 | Emerson S86, Asco 210 |
| Biryusa 6S (small) | DXM-1, NL4 | RTK-1, DHR-0.5 | Ranco A12, Danfoss 077B2 |
If the original relay cannot be found, you can use analogs from Danfoss, Ranco or Emerson, but be sure to check operation current and mount typeFor example, the relay Danfoss 077B6 is suitable for. compressors NL6, but not compatible with DXM-3.
When purchasing, avoid cheap Chinese analogues without markings - they often fail through several months. It is better to overpay for the original or a certified substitute.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the relay in Biryusa refrigerators
Is it possible to repair the relay yourself? without buying a new one?
In some cases - yes. If the problem is in oxidized contacts, they can be cleaned with sandpaper or alcohol. If there is a cracked case inside the relay, repair is impossible - only replacement. Also, relays cannot be repaired. data-i="263">(determined by a burning smell and a blackened body). broken spring or a cracked case, repair is impossible - only replacement. Relays with burnt winding (identified by a burning smell and blackened body).
What to do if, after replacing the relay, the refrigerator does not turns on?
Check:
If everything is in order, but the refrigerator does not work, the new relay may be defective (this happens with cheap analogues).
How to distinguish a start-protective relay from thermal?
Main differences:
Also, the start-up relay clicks when the compressor is turned on/off, and the thermal one operates silently.
Do I need to discharge the capacitor before removing the relay?
In most models Biryusa capacitor discharges automatically 5-10 minutes after disconnecting from the network. However, if you are working with a refrigerator that has been turned on for a long time, it is better to discharge the capacitor manually:
Be careful - a spark may jump during the discharge!
Is it possible to replace the relay on the Biryusa refrigerator without experience?
Yes, if you strictly follow the instructions and observe safety precautions - do not rushlabel. all wires and do not make excessive efforts when dismantling. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to invite a specialist - mistakes when working with electricity can lead to serious damage (for example, burning out the compressor).